Basara Saraswati temple set for major upgrade as CM Revanth launches Rs 225 crore project

Hyderabad: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Monday laid the foundation stone for the expansion and comprehensive development of the renowned Gnana Saraswati temple at Basara in Nirmal district.

The project, estimated at Rs 225 crore, aims to transform the temple into a major spiritual and infrastructure hub ahead of the upcoming Godavari Pushkaralu.

Bhoomi puja performed amid Vedic rituals

Accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and other ministers, the Chief Minister performed Bhoomi Puja at the temple premises. Earlier, he, along with his family members, offered special prayers and participated in traditional rituals conducted by priests amid Vedic chants.

Temple with ancient legacy

Situated on the banks of the sacred Godavari River, revered as the ‘Dakshina Ganga’, the Basara temple holds immense historical and spiritual significance.

According to legend, sage Veda Vyasa settled here after the Kurukshetra War and consecrated idols of Goddess Saraswati, Mahalakshmi, and Mahakali, making it a revered ‘Trimata’ shrine.

The temple is especially known for Aksharabhyasam, a ritual marking a child’s initiation into education, attracting thousands of devotees every year.

Master plan to preserve tradition, enhance infrastructure

With a steady rise in footfall and limited facilities, the State government has initiated a comprehensive development plan while ensuring adherence to the temple’s traditions and rituals.

The master plan was prepared in consultation with spiritual leaders of the Sringeri Peethadhipatis, whose approval was obtained for the proposed designs.

Major expansion works planned

The redevelopment plan includes significant structural expansion and new construction:

- The sanctum sanctorum (Garbhalayam) and Artha Mandapam will be expanded from 2,000 sq. ft. to 5,000 sq. ft.

- A nine-storey Raja Gopuram will be constructed on the northern side

- Seven-storey towers will come up in the remaining three directions

- Mada Veedhulu (processional streets), 33 feet wide, will encircle the temple

- A temple tank (Koneru) and a grand northern gateway will be developed

Overall, the built-up area of the temple will increase from 20,000 sq. ft. to 62,000 sq. ft.

Focus on devotee amenities ahead of Pushkaralu

With the Godavari Pushkaralu scheduled to begin in June next year, the government is prioritising the creation of modern amenities to handle the anticipated influx of lakhs of devotees.

Facilities for accommodation, sanitation, and crowd management are expected to be upgraded as part of the project.

Aim to develop Basara as a spiritual destination

The Chief Minister emphasised the need to develop Basara into a prominent pilgrimage centre while preserving its sanctity and heritage. Officials have been directed to execute the works efficiently and ensure readiness ahead of major religious events.